Exercise will lower the risk for many cardiovascular diseases, including:

Angina pectoris;

Aortoiliac occlusive disease;

Peripheral arterial disease;

Congestive heart failure;

Diabetic vascular disease;

Dilated cardiomyopathy;

Heart attack;

Hypertension;

Hyperlipidemia;

Pulmonary embolism;

Pulmonary hypertension;

Kidney disease;

Stroke; and

Visceral artery conditions.

Exercise may also reduce the risk for certain types of cancer such as colon and breast cancer.

GETTING STARTED

The American Heart Association and the CDC recommend that the following groups of people talk to their physician before they start exercising:

Adults with chronic disease such as heart disease, obesity, or diabetes;

Adults at high risk for heart disease; and

Men over age 40 and women over age 50 who are inactive or plan to significantly increase their activity.

The physician may also conduct tests for heart conditions in overweight or obese patients or those with a history of cardiovascular disease.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE?

Most people are eligible to begin an exercise program.

In general, people with the following diseases or conditions should check with their physician before beginning an exercise program:

Chronic disease;

Overweight or obesity;

Abdominal aortic aneurysm;

Aortic dissection; or

Aortic stenosis.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Physicians recommend the patient gradually increase the frequency, duration, and intensity of exercise. The physician can help determine an appropriate level to begin.

Patients should always warm up before and cool down after exercising.

Aerobic exercise. Types of moderate aerobic exercise include:

Walking briskly;

Swimming;

Bicycling;

Using an elliptical trainer;

Rowing;

Golf (without a cart);

Doubles tennis; and

Dancing.

Most patients will be advised to work toward a goal of 30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise a day, 5 or more days a week.

Strength exercise. Specific strength exercises include:

Biceps curl;

Triceps extension;

Arm raise;

Pushup;

Pull-down;

Knee extension; and

Hip extension.

Many physicians recommend a goal of 15 to 20 minutes of strength exercises twice a week.

Flexibility and balance exercise. Types of stretches include hamstring stretches, quadriceps stretches, and calf stretches. Patients should stretch after aerobic or strength exercise.

Balance exercises can be taught as part of a tai chi or yoga class.

Lifestyle exercise. Examples of aerobic lifestyle exercise include:

Housework;

Yard work; and

Walking to do errands or to take public transportation.

HOW SOON WILL IT MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

Exercise can have immediate positive effects on mood and insulin sensitivity.

Other benefits take weeks to months to occur, such as fitness, weight loss, or recovery from disease or condition.

Patients who already take medications for cardiovascular disease should not stop using them once they start exercising or adding any other lifestyle changes. Patients should always discuss their drug treatment with their physician.

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